Glass and Framing

By Daniel Sobrado

Published in Structures

October 14, 2024

3 min read

Glass and Framing Guide

Imagine standing in your dream home, looking out at the shimmering sea through the perfect set of windows. The salty breeze caresses your face, but your windows and doors remain steadfast, unphased by the coastal elements.

To turn this vision into reality, it’s key to understand the intricacies of selecting the good glass and frames for your 2-story coastal residence in the Philippines.

Understanding the Environment

First, let’s discuss the challenges your windows and doors will face:

Key Challenges:

Salt spray exposure
High humidity (80-90%)
Intense UV radiation
Typhoon exposure
Corrosive environment
Temperature fluctuations

But fret not, for we have the solutions! Let’s break down the specifications required for each floor.

Part 1: Specs by Floor

Ground Floor

Front and Sea-Facing:

Glass: 12mm laminated tempered
Frame: Rehau UPVC (Euro-Design 70)
Protection: Roll shutters mandatory
Features:
- Multi-point locks
- Double weatherstripping
- Deep anchoring

Back and Protected:

Glass: 10mm tempered
Frame: Kömmerling UPVC
Protection: Standard awnings

Second Floor

Sea-Facing:

Glass: 12mm laminated or double-glazed
Frame: Rehau UPVC
Protection: Roll shutters recommended

Other Sides:

Glass: 10mm tempered
Frame: Kömmerling UPVC
Protection: Optional roll shutters

Part 2: Cost Breakdown

Now, let’s discuss the financial aspects. Here’s what you can expect to invest:

Ground Floor:

Sliding Doors (2):
- 2.2m × 2.0m each
- Glass (12mm): ₱63,462
- UPVC Frames: ₱52,800
- Roll Shutters: ₱68,750
Windows (5):
- 8.25 sq m total
- Glass (12mm): ₱82,755
- UPVC Frames: ₱74,250
- Roll Shutters: ₱103,125
Curtain Wall (Sea):
- 30 sq m
- Glass (12mm): ₱194,722
- UPVC Frames: ₱270,000
- Roll Shutters: ₱187,500

Second Floor:

Sliding Doors (2):
- 2.2m × 2.0m each
- Glass (10mm): ₱46,981
- UPVC Frames: ₱52,800
- Roll Shutters: ₱68,750
Windows (6):
- 9 sq m total
- Glass (10mm): ₱61,263
- UPVC Frames: ₱81,000
- Roll Shutters (optional): ₱112,500

Total Investment:

Glass: ₱449,183
UPVC Frames: ₱530,850
Roll Shutters: ₱428,125
Grand Total: ₱1,408,158

Part 3: Enhanced Specs

To further optimize durability in coastal conditions, consider these enhanced specifications:

UPVC Frames

Profile System:
- 5+ chambers for insulation
- 70mm depth for strength
- Steel reinforced for wind resistance
- UV-resistant formulation
- Dual glazing beads
- Robust corner joints
- Anti-lift devices
Hardware:
- 316 marine-grade steel
- Multi-point locks (3+)
- Dual EPDM seals
- Anti-lift on all sliders
- Reinforced welded corners
- Drainage with caps

Enhanced Glass

Ground Floor Sea Side:
- 12mm laminated tempered
- 1.52mm+ PVB interlayer
- UV protective coating
- Silicone edge seal
- Water drainage system
- Impact-resistant beads
Second Floor Sea Side:
- 12mm laminated with UV
- Or double (6+12+6)
- Low-E for efficiency
- Optional argon filling
- Marine-grade edge seal

Roll Shutters

Material and Construction:
- 1.4mm+ extruded aluminum
- Double-wall slats
- 200 kph+ wind rating
- 60μm+ powder coating
- Reinforced bottom rail
Operation Systems:
- Electric + manual backup
- Battery backup
- Remote + manual switch
- Emergency release
Installation:
- 300mm+ header box
- 90mm deep side rails
- Anchors every 400mm
- Full weather sealing
- Drainage channels
- Storm bars for wide spans

Part 4: Maintenance

Proper maintenance is key to ensuring the longevity of your windows and doors.

Monthly Tasks:

Rinse frames and glass
Clear drainage holes
Lubricate hardware
Test shutters and motors
Check weather seals
Clean tracks and rails

Quarterly Tasks:

Deep clean UPVC frames
Inspect all seals
Lubricate and tighten
Professional shutter maintenance
Check all lock points
Clean drainage systems

Annual Professional Maintenance:

Comprehensive system check
Hardware replacement assessment
Seal inspection and replacement
Structural integrity assessment
Shutter motor servicing
Frame alignment check
Glass unit inspection
Weather seal replacement if needed

Part 5: Value Considerations

These enhancements not only improve durability but also provide significant value:

Energy Efficiency:

UPVC: 30-40% AC savings
Double glaze: Additional 20% savings
Shutters: 15-25% savings
Low-E: 10-15% extra
Potential: Up to 70% total savings

Long-term Durability:

UPVC: 20-30 year lifespan
Laminated: 15-20 yr warranty
Shutters: 10-15 yr warranty
Hardware: 5-7 yr with proper care

Warranty Requirements:

UPVC Frames:
- 10 yr on profile
- 5 yr on welds
- 2 yr on hardware
Glass Units:
- 5 yr anti-delamination
- 2 yr on seals
- 1 yr on installation
Roll Shutters:
- 5 yr on motor
- 2 yr on parts
- 1 yr on installation

In Conclusion

Investing in high-quality windows and doors for your coastal home in the Philippines yields substantial returns in terms of:

Enhanced durability against harsh coastal conditions
Significant energy savings
Improved comfort and security
Reduced long-term maintenance costs
Increased property resale value

To achieve the best results, prioritize:

Coastal-grade materials throughout
Comprehensive protection systems like sturdy roll shutters
Professional installation by experienced coastal contractors
Regular maintenance and care
Proper warranty documentation

Work with certified professionals well-versed in coastal construction, and ensure all warranties are meticulously documented. With the right approach, your windows and doors will serve as the silent guardians of your coastal sanctuary for many years to come.

Disclaimer: This information is based on consumer research to understand the construction process, legal requirements, potential issues, and best practices. It is not professional advice. Please consult with qualified experts for specific project guidance. This information is subject to change and improvement.